It is the steep and formidable stone stairway that makes this fortress unique. The stone steps are narrow (in width) and are at a 70-degree angle reaching up to a height of about 92m (300ft). Although I am not scared of heights, I am careful climbing up because a misstep would mean an unnecessary, Read More
I’m in Ireland for a week. Belfast to be exact because I would need a different visa to get across to Dublin. Of all the things I’ve heard about Ireland, it is “The Troubles” that stand out most. The Troubles took place during a period of ethno-nationalist conflict and political violence in Northern Ireland, Read More
As I embark on my journey across Scotland, I can’t help but be struck by the vibrant colours and beauty of the wildflowers that dot the countryside. From the rolling hills to the rugged coastline, every turn in my journey is accompanied by a colourful array of blooms.
Having left Aviemore, we proceed northwards along the A9. The Scottish landscape is extremely picturesque and colourful. We are en route to the farthest end of the country. But along the way, we stop to visit the Urquhart Castle, one of medieval Scotland’s largest castles and important strongholds. The Castle was built in the, Read More
Scotland is lovely. Actually, Scotland is more than just lovely…it is unreservedly friendly, full of unpronounceable words and has some absolutely fascinating history. My journey into Scotland begins in Stirling. Located between Glasgow and Edinburgh, Stirling is a quiet, laidback city in central Scotland with its own share of history. On the Abbey Craig, Read More
I just love the outdoors. Spaces and landscapes that include gardens, lakes, mountains, oceans, long winding roads, turn me on! It’s pure exhilaration and gratuitous peace. So two days into my visit to Stirling, I am in the back of a rented car on a road trip across Scotland. After three hours of driving, Read More
Imagine over 500 monks living and meditating silently in a thickly forested, 1,600 acre, mountainous monastic retreat which has architecturally faultless waterways, drip ledges, stairways cut into stone, naturally ‘air conditioned’ caves, toilets, monuments, artefacts and other cool stuff. Now imagine all this happened over 3000 years ago! This is Rajagala, a sprawling Buddhist, Read More
COVID-19 disrupted a lot of my travel plans throughout 2021. The frequent lockdowns and travel restrictions meant that pre-booked destinations had to be postponed indefinitely. One of which was my trip to the Ahaspokuna in Belihuloya where I was to go in April 2021. Now, nine months later, I am finally on my way., Read More
It is easy to miss the inconspicuous turn off to the Kudumbigala Archaeological Site on the main road en route to the entrance of the Kumana National Park. However, the Kudumbigala rock can be seen from this far, standing like a sentinel overlooking the Park below. Even from this distance, the ancient cylindrical dome, Read More
Scrambling through the Sinharaja Rainforest is not just about plucking slimy leeches off my clothes. Once I perfect the art of annihilation or flicking them away, it is good to enjoy and appreciate the amazing foliage around me, especially the colourful and intricate lichen. The Sinharaja Rainforest is an amazing bio hotspot and unique, Read More